Romania faces €600 million Pfizer vaccine payment dispute

Romanian authorities are negotiating with pharmaceutical group Pfizer to resolve a court‑ordered payment of roughly €600 million for COVID‑19 vaccine doses ordered during the pandemic but never delivered. Following the Brussels Tribunal's decision, the state‑owned company ROMATSA has had its accounts frozen under enforcement measures, and interest of about €81,000 per day is accruing.

Interim Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare described the case as one of the most complex financial disputes facing the country, noting that the liability represents about 0.2% of Romania’s GDP. The government is exploring options such as swapping the unused doses for other medical products, reducing penalties, or reaching a settlement that limits immediate cash outflow. Discussions involve the Ministry of Health, Polish officials who face a similar claim, and the European Commission.

No detailed terms have been disclosed due to confidentiality clauses, but officials say they are seeking a solution that mitigates the fiscal impact while maintaining a working relationship with Pfizer.